Single Module Principles of Acoustics and Vibration, Level 7 (15 Credits)

Program Overview

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Overview

This single module is drawn from our MSc/PgDip Acoustics programme. It is offered standalone to cater for the needs of those who only require training in one specialist area, e.g., for CPD purposes in relevant industries.

Introduction

In the Principles of Acoustics and Vibration module, you will develop a systematic understanding of the physical and mathematical representations of vibrating systems and acoustic waves in 1D, 2D, and 3D.

You will:

• Develop a systematic core understanding of the physical and mathematical representations of vibrating systems
• Gain a comprehensive understanding of waves and signals using mathematical analysis and apply this to realistic problems
• Develop critical thinking, questioning of assumptions and limitations inherent in acoustic theory

Course Details

All about the course

During the module, you will learn about the descriptors and physical units of acoustic and vibration phenomena, and apply critical thinking to understanding of the assumptions and limitations inherent in acoustics and vibration theory. Using this, you will solve advanced problems in acoustics by application of theory and mathematical techniques.

Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.

What will I be doing?

Teaching

Learning is mainly delivered using tutorial and seminar groups. Interaction is face-to-face wherever practical, but we also use web-based learning support packages (databases of materials, discussion boards etc.). There is a strong focus on guided self-learning.

Distance learning students can stream classes via our Virtual Learning Environment, either to participate live or watch later.

All modules are centred on a weekly programme of directed reading, supported by a detailed study guide and sets of tutorial questions. On occasion, lecture content may be screencast for watching in advance, following the ‘flipped classroom’ approach.

Face-to-face and distance learning cohorts are co-taught. This means that in-person sessions are streamed live for online learners, with tutors answering questions from both online and in-person cohorts at the same time. All classes are timetabled Monday to Friday between 9am and 6pm (UK time). However, where necessary, it’s also possible for learners to participate beyond the co-taught format, for example through session recordings and discussion forums.

Assessment

Each module features one substantial written assignment to test the learning outcomes and cover the syllabus. The assignments are based around ‘open-ended’ design exercises and case studies based on realistic problems.

School of Science, Engineering and Environment

Rising to the challenge of a changing world, our postgraduate courses are designed to shape the next generation of urbanists, scientists, engineers, consultants, and leaders.

Driven by industry and delivered by supportive programme teams, you can develop the knowledge and skills to take your career potential further.

Facilities

Campus-based students will experience a modern learning environment, featuring accessible lecture theatres, AV-equipped classrooms, computing suites, and multimedia libraries. Distance learners will experience our Collaborate Ultra platform, with real-time and on-demand materials.

As an acoustics student, you will interact with world-class facilities, including full and semi-anechoic chambers, a transmission suite, large and small reverberation chambers, an ITU standard listening room, audiometric test facilities, and a range of advanced instrumentation and equipment.

Industry Collaboration & Research

When you study acoustics at Salford, you are also joining a community making a difference in industry, our local region, and in our wider society.

Many of our academics and technicians who support your course also deliver collaborative, interdisciplinary, high-impact work in a range of local and global issues and challenges with noise, sound, and vibration.

Employment and Stats

What about after uni?

Employment

Acousticians with engineering, science, and mathematical skills are in short supply, which puts you in a strong position to build a career. Our Acoustics postgraduate single modules can help you specialise your knowledge in the areas of acoustics that you're most interested in to help your career development, e.g. for CPD in a specific area that you are currently employed in or are seeking a job in.

In our increasingly busy world, managing unwanted noise is a growing and significant problem. Depending on the module, you might choose to use the knowledge and skills developed in a consultancy context – working with organisations to solve environmental noise challenges – or in audio engineering research – undertaking loudspeaker and audio system design, and/or consumer audio product development.

Many of the graduates of the acoustics programmes these modules are drawn from have progressed into senior roles in acoustics consultancy, research, development, and audio design. Today, you will find our alumni working at Apple, Dolby, BBC, plus every major acoustic consultancy in the world.

Further Study

This module can be taken as a stand-alone for the purposes of continuing professional development or as part of our MSc Acoustics programme.

You might also choose to take your subject interest further with postgraduate research. Our Acoustics Research Centre is home to PhD and Research Master’s opportunities exploring a range of topics, including noise and soundscapes, sound modelling, psychoacoustics, vibro-acoustics, building acoustics, acoustic materials, and audio engineering.

Career Links

• Salford is accredited to perform twelve types of test via our world-class facilities that are maintained by commercially-funded technicians. We also have a UKAS-accredited Calibration Laboratory which provides a full-scale commercial service to industry.
• Our acoustics team holds strong industry links nurtured through collaborative research and projects based at our commercial test laboratories. These connections ensure that the programme is aligned with the latest research findings and developments.
• Recent projects include creating integrated virtual models for acoustic design with Dyson, wind turbine noise auralisation and subjective testing with DELTA and DEFRA, acoustics for auralisation with Arup, the S3A Future Spatial Audio project with the BBC and SALSA (Spatial Automated Live Sports Audio) system with DTS and Fairlight.
• We regularly share research outputs with industry partners and acoustics network. Recent masterclasses include acoustic consultancy with RBA Acoustics, noise mapping software with Cambell Associates, environmental noise with WSP/Parcel, railway noise and vibration with AECOM, NVH infotainment with JaguarLandRover, and measurement microphone technology with GRAS.

Requirements

What you need to know

Applicant Profile

Our Acoustics postgraduate modules are recommended for numerate science graduates and professionals who require education in specific areas of Acoustics. These might include:

• Graduates from our own courses wanting to take specific optional modules they didn’t select during their degree;
• Graduates from related degrees at other institutions wanting to take one of our modules;
• Employees in industry wanting to undertake modules as CPD;
• PhD students wanting Training in specific areas of Acoustics.

Applicants needing a general grounding covering all of Acoustics should consider applying to the full MSc/PgDip Acoustics programme from which these modules are drawn.

English Language Requirements

All of our courses are taught and assessed in English. If English is not your first language, you must meet our minimum English language entry requirements. An IELTS score of 6.0 (no element below 5.5) is proof of this, however, we do accept a range of equivalent qualifications.

International Students - Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)

International students are required by the Home Office and/or the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) to apply for an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) Certificate before they begin their studies. You need to obtain an ATAS Certificate before you come to the UK to comply with Home Office regulations.

Entry Requirements

Undergraduate degree

• An undergraduate award at 2:2 or above (or equivalent) in science, engineering, or mathematics.
• An undergraduate award at 2:2 or above (or equivalent) in another discipline, together with an appropriate engineering mathematics foundation qualification.

Applicants must also have the equivalent of grade C or higher, GCSE Mathematics and GCSE English.

International entry requirements

We accept qualifications from all around the world. Find your country to see a full list of entry requirements.

Alternative entry requirements

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)

We welcome applications from students who may not have formal/traditional entry criteria but who have relevant experience or the ability to pursue the course successfully.

The Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process could help you to make your work and life experience count. The APL process can be used for entry onto courses or to give you exemptions from parts of your course.

Two forms of APL may be used for entry: the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).

Fees

How much?

Type of study	Year	Fees
Distance learning UK	2025/26	£1,730 per 30 credits
Part-time UK	2025/26	£885 per 15 credits
Distance learning International	2025/26	£2,840 per 30 credits
Part-time International	2025/26	£1,420 per 15 credits

Additional costs

You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding, and general subsistence on trips and visits.

Program Outline

• Objectives: Develop a systematic understanding of acoustics and vibration, gain expertise in analyzing waves and signals, and learn critical thinking skills applicable to theoretical limitations in acoustics.
• Description: This module is designed for individuals seeking specialized training in acoustics, such as for CPD purposes.
It covers advanced topics in acoustics theory and problem-solving using mathematical techniques.

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Outline:

• Content: The module covers descriptors and physical units of acoustic and vibration phenomena, critical thinking related to acoustics and vibration theory, and advanced problem-solving using theoretical and mathematical methods.
• Structure: The module is offered part-time through distance learning and is delivered through tutorials, seminars, and self-directed learning.
• Schedule: The module runs for one semester and is offered in September 2024.

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Assessment:

• Methods: Assessment is through one substantial written assignment based on open-ended design exercises and case studies.
• Criteria: The assessment tests the learning outcomes and covers the syllabus, focusing on application of theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills.

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Teaching:

• Methods: Learning is delivered through tutorials, seminars, and web-based learning support packages.
• Unique Approaches: The program utilizes a 'flipped classroom' approach where lecture content is provided beforehand, allowing for interactive sessions during class time.

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Careers:

• Paths: Graduates can pursue careers in acoustic consultancy, research, development, or audio design.
• Opportunities: The program equips graduates with the skills to manage noise challenges, design audio systems, and conduct research in acoustics.
• Outcomes: Many graduates hold senior roles in acoustics consultancy, research, and audio design.

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Other:

• The program is offered by the School of Science, Engineering and Environment at the University of Salford.
• The program utilizes world-class facilities, including anechoic chambers, reverberation chambers, an audiometric test facility, and advanced instrumentation.
• The program is informed by industry collaborations and research projects.

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| Type of study | Year | Fees | |---|---|---| | Distance learning UK | 2024/25 | £832.50 per 15 credits | | Part-time UK | 2024/25 | £850 per 15 credits | | Distance Learning International | 2024/25 | £1,365 per 15 credits | | Part-time International | 2024/25 | £1,365 per 15 credits |